Suggestions for inline solar feed switch

[Cush]

Evening everyone,
Think I need an inline switch to isolate the solar panel input before it reaches the solar controller. Feel it might arc if reconnecting the panels to the controller in sunlight. I could do it at night, or climb up and cover the panels but would prefer something that is less hassle. Would a fuse on the live be sufficient?
TIA Cush

 

[Googlebot]

Evening everyone,
Think I need an inline switch to isolate the solar panel input before it reaches the solar controller. Feel it might arc if reconnecting the panels to the controller in sunlight. I could do it at night, or climb up and cover the panels but would prefer something that is less hassle. Would a fuse on the live be sufficient?
TIA Cush

I used a domestic 25 amp cooker switch. Works fine. On the smaller panel, I used a 5 amp light switch, also works fine.

A fuse would also work but isn’t designed for constant pulling in and out.

 

[JohnT UK]

Do a Google on this sort of thing https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/28610107...pid=5339023013&customid=&toolid=10001&mkevt=1

 

[Cush]

A fuse would also work but isn’t designed for constant pulling in and out.

Could this be more appropriate?

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/6136OGCuS3L._AC_SL1000_.jpg

 

[Tombola]

Could this be more appropriate?

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/6136OGCuS3L._AC_SL1000_.jpg

I used one of those and the terminals arced inside the unit itself
I did a search and there are a few bad comments about them.

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[JohnT UK]

From what I have seen online the general consensus is don't go near

 

[Googlebot]

From what I have seen online the general consensus is don't go near

Agreed!

Ref the circuit breakers, probably overkill for a simple on off switch. You then need the enclosures and it will be huge.

Worth considering for a big array though.

 

[JohnT UK]

Agreed!

Ref the circuit breakers, probably overkill for a simple on off switch. You then need the enclosures and it will be huge.

Worth considering for a big array though.

You can get away with a small piece of din rail if mounted internally no enclosures necessary

Din Rail 'Top Hat' 35mm - Lengths as 100mm- 200mmm= 250mm- 500mm-1 metre x1x2x4 | eBay

Slotted DIN RAIL 'TOP HAT'. Tinity Touch TS35 Top Hat profile Slotted Steel Galvanised Din Rail M6 Slot. Width as 35mm. 35MM SIDE TO SIDE.

www.ebay.co.uk

 

[Lenny HB]

I use a roaty cam switch.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Heschen-Universal-Selector-Changeover-Terminals/dp/B097T3DXV8/?tag=mhf04-21

 

[Cush]

Thank you all. I have a spare rotary cam 2 output selector switch (the one that Mr Lenny HB linked to). Break Before Make style. I’ll use that and and save fitting the breaker and swapping plugs over manually. Thanks for helping with the thinking / planning process.

For anyone in future that come across this scenario, this link may be helpful

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[Raul]

This one here actually has the relevant BS EN code for the intended application, and is approved for prosumer installation as a DC switch gear. It's covered in the regs apendix, and the number rings true. It can be used as isolator under load, and can actually trip at the relevant value for overcurrent protection.
Some ppl use it to parallel batteries as well, just chose the right rating.

Projoy Battery Isolator 160V 80A DC MCB

Part No: PEBS-L-160V-80A-2P-DC Storage Systems - Battery Fuses PEBS-L Series DC Miniature Circuit Breaker (160V 80A) DC Miniature Circuit Breakers PEBS-L, with capacities of load isolation and overload/short circuit protection, is designed for PV, energy storage, and other DC applications...

electric-solar.co.uk

 

[LithiumConvert]

I use a slimline surface mounted domestic light switch - in the lead from the panel to the controller.

Been there for ten years now.

 

[cyberyacht]

I've got the type referred to by Cush . Been OK for four years.